Karnataka says no advance payment for bite emergencies at hospitals

India Nov 15, 2025

Karnataka just made it official: if you're bitten by a dog, snake, or any animal, private hospitals must give you immediate emergency care—no advance payment needed.
This update to the law follows a Supreme Court order and aims to make sure lifesaving help is never delayed.

Why this matters for everyone

Now, all hospitals (not just government ones) have to keep anti-rabies and anti-snakebite medicines in stock and treat bite cases right away.
Hospitals that follow the rules will get reimbursed by the state. Plus, medical negligence in treating bites can now mean serious penalties—even jail time or losing a license.
Karnataka's big goal? Zero human rabies deaths by 2030, so everyone gets fair access to urgent care when it counts most.